Check pressures at least once a month when tires have been at rest and are not hot. Inflate tires to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure listed in the owner’s manual or on the driver-side door jamb, and not to the number molded into the tire’s sidewall.

Inspect tires for cuts, gouges, or sidewall bulges. To check tread wear, insert a quarter upside down into the grooves in several spots. If the top of George Washington’s head is visible at any point, it’s time for new tires. Uneven wear across tire treads can indicate inflation, suspension, or wheel alignment issues.

Brakes

The brakes are the single most important safety system on your vehicle. Inspect brakes for wear and fluid leaks at every oil change, and whenever there are signs of a potential problem.

Pay attention to your vehicle’s electronic indicators, or any grinding or scraping noises when applying the brakes. Worn out brakes or brake system hydraulic pressure loss require immediate attention.

Battery

Heat and vibration are a battery’s two worst enemies. You can’t do much about heat, but you can secure your battery to minimize vibration, and clean the terminals to ensure good electrical connections.

Depending on local climate and vehicle use, most car batteries have a three- to five-year service life. After three years, have your battery tested to determine remaining capacity. In many areas for members, a AAA Mobile Battery Service technician will come out to do a free battery test. If it needs to be replaced, a new battery can usually be installed on location. For more information, visit AAA.com/Battery.

Fluids

Check your vehicle’s engine oil level monthly. Change the oil at the intervals specified by the vehicle manufacturer and use an oil that meets the vehicle’s factory specifications. Most newer engines require semi- or full-synthetic oil to properly protect the engine and maintain the vehicle warranty.

Also check engine coolant and brake, transmission, and power steering fluids. When fluids are needed, always use a product that meets the specifications listed in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Note that newer car models may have sealed automatic transmissions without a dipstick, and electric power steering that may not use fluid.

Wipers and Washers

Rubber components naturally deteriorate over time so wiper blades require periodic replacement. The typical wiper blade lifespan is six to twelve months depending on local climate.

Figure 4. Good wiper blades are critical to clear vision. (AAA image)

Keep the windshield washer fluid reservoir topped up with a solution formulated to remove insects and other debris. Test the washer spray nozzles for proper operation and aim before leaving on a road trip.

Belts and Hoses

Reinforced rubber drive belts power the engine water pump and various accessories such as the alternator and air conditioning compressor. Inspect the belts and replace any that are cracked, glazed, or frayed. Note that many modern multi-rib or drive belt materials do not show easily visible signs of wear. As a general rule, replace drive belts every 60,000 miles.

Figure 5. A comparison of multi-rib drive belts after 100,000 miles. Both need replacement, but the newer belt made of EPDM rubber does not show wear like the older part. (courtesy Gates)

Rubber hoses carry various fluids in the engine compartment. Inspect and replace any leaking or damaged hoses. Replace worn, brittle, bulging, or excessively soft radiator hoses. Check for leaks around hose clamps and at the radiator and water pump.

Air Conditioning

A malfunctioning air-conditioning system seldom disables a vehicle, unless the drive belt that powers both the AC compressor and the engine water pump breaks. Auto air conditioning systems do not require routine maintenance, but should be checked if there’s a decrease in cooling capability.

Climate control systems equipped with cabin filters that prevent outside dust and debris from entering the vehicle should be inspected and replaced as needed.

There is no simple answer to the question of how long a car battery will last, but it is possible to offer some generalizations based on decades of industry experience. To begin with, we know that the life of a car battery varies based on three key factors...